Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps

Submarines

Introduction

Nuclear-powered fast-attack and ballistic missile submarines form a vital part of America's national defense. Utilizing the advantage of stealth coupled with the awesome endurance of nuclear propulsion, submarines have played an invaluable role in the defense of our country in this century. Whether it is conducting Tomahawk missile strikes in the Persian Gulf, collecting intelligence, inserting SEALs in Special Operations, or providing nuclear deterrence, the submarine force provides an agile and flexible deterrent against all those who would threaten the security of our country.

Requirements

NROTC graduates are selected during their final year of school based on their grade point average, overall class rank, and Navy fitness scores. In order to be selected for this career field, the midshipman or officer candidate must interview with the director of Naval Reactors in Washington D.C. A strong math and physical science background is necessary to succeed in the challenging nuclear power environment. Interviews test the applicants' basic knowledge of technical subjects such as calculus and physics.

Pipeline

Once commissioned, submarine officers begin their training by attending Naval Nuclear Power School (NNPS) located in Charleston, South Carolina. Upon completion of NNPS, officers report to nuclear power prototype training in either Charleston, South Carolina or Ballston Spa, New York where they will get "hands-on" knowledge of what it takes to operate a nuclear power plant. While at prototype training, officers will request their submarine assignment, based on platform (fast-attack or ballistic missile) or homebase. Submarines are currently homeported in Groton, CT; Norfolk, VA; Kings Bay, GA; San Diego, CA; Bangor, WA; Pearl Harbor, HI; and Guam. The last phase of training, before reporting to their boat, is the Submarine Officer Basic Course (SOBC) in Groton, Connecticut. At SOBC, officers will learn how to track and sink other subs and ships, learn about the weapons and SONAR systems in use, and develop submarine warfighting tactical knowledge.